Spock's Beard - Solitary Soul
I enjoy a lot of the Neal Morse led Spock's Beard, and there are probably 5 or maybe 10 other songs by them I would rank higher than this. Actually thinking about it, probably more than that.
But I heard this on 1 of The Prog Report's podcasts last week and cannot get it out of my fucking head.
It's so SAD and MELANCHOLY.
I suppose part of the reason also has to do with dealing with difficult emotional situations of late.
-My wife's dog Coco is not doing well, really hasn't been since her Pyometra surgery last March. But we had to take her in to be tested for Cushings and she pretty much has it and now we have to decide on medication and thinking about the end of her life. If she responds to the medication, her symptoms will improve, but she has 30 months to live tops. She is almost 13 though (12 years, 10 months), so to expect her to live 2 ore more years would be optimistic.
-My dad has been in the hospital since Saturday morning. He thankfully had a successful surgery yesterday and is doing much better, but my thoughts have been with him and this song only added to that. I mean he couldn't eat or drink anything for almost 5 days.
-Trying to find a house and the reality of moving, living in a new place, since my wife and I have spent most of our at-home life together in our current residence the last 8 years. It naturally is a sad/nostalgic mentality just thinking about it.
-And the weather has been pretty depressing with Frozen Vortex-like temps last week, and this week ice-roads and not 1, but 2 long-sustained Snow systems, during RUSH HOUR (took me over 1 hour to get home on Tuesday). I mean it's not a Blizzard, but they've seemed darn close to the same impact.
That being said, musically this is really powerful. The strings, synths/mellotron, the vocal parts, including the harmonies and especially Falsetto Neal sings.
Love Beyond Words....
Showing posts with label Neal Morse. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Neal Morse. Show all posts
Thursday, February 7, 2019
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Cruise to the Edge 2015: Chris Squire Tribute (w/ Portnoy, Marillion, Neal Morse)
The 2015 Cruise the Edge was held the last few days and of course right after he died, it was planned for a tribute to Chris Squire to take place. And Mike Portnoy was goinjg to be involved, as he was already going to playing on the Cruise as part of the Neal Morse band,
Well here's the set list, which includes all of Side 1 of Fish out of Water
Some videos below too.
I haven't seeked out a video of it, but I guess Ted Leonard joined for Changes, which of course Enchant did a cover of Changes on the Yes Tribute cd back in the mid 90's.
Also the fact the Marillion guys (Steve Hogarth, Pete Trawavas) were involved probably makes me the most envious, but too many reasons I can list are why I didn't go to this (largely due to $). Maybe it'll get released in some official capacity, but if not, at least the footage is on YouTube.
(Intro Tape - Amazing Grace)
Every Little Thing
No Opportunity Necessary No Experience Needed
Hold Out Your Hand / You By My Side
Silently Falling
Cinema / Make It Easy
City Of Love
The Fish Medley
Changes
Does It Really Happen (Reprise)
Well here's the set list, which includes all of Side 1 of Fish out of Water
Some videos below too.
I haven't seeked out a video of it, but I guess Ted Leonard joined for Changes, which of course Enchant did a cover of Changes on the Yes Tribute cd back in the mid 90's.
Also the fact the Marillion guys (Steve Hogarth, Pete Trawavas) were involved probably makes me the most envious, but too many reasons I can list are why I didn't go to this (largely due to $). Maybe it'll get released in some official capacity, but if not, at least the footage is on YouTube.
(Intro Tape - Amazing Grace)
Every Little Thing
No Opportunity Necessary No Experience Needed
Hold Out Your Hand / You By My Side
Silently Falling
Cinema / Make It Easy
City Of Love
The Fish Medley
Changes
Does It Really Happen (Reprise)
Monday, September 22, 2014
Flying Colors - Second Nature (2014)
9/22/14 9:46PM
Link with Soundcloud Stream of album
I've checked it out once for the most part. It's not bad, but I'd be lying if I said I was blown away by it. Needs more time I suppose. The Transatlantic comparison is still there, naturally with Neal Morse especially, it often sounds like a lot of his music.
8/20/14 6:15AM
"Mask Machine" video. Not bad. Not as bad at least as some of the comments on some of the forums have given it. Does it sound like Muse? in spots, but so did parts of their debut album. Is it too long? not really just from hearing it initially.
also I never got around to sharing this.The 3 shows in the US Bend Sinister is the support act. I'd love to go, but the Chicago show for example, falls on Yom Kippur anyway. O well, I do hope naturally a lot of new people catch on to Bend Sinister from the exposure as it is cool Flying Colors (Portnoy) is having them share the bill on those 3 dates in the US at least.
OCTOBER 2014 TOUR
10/02 LOS ANGELES, CA JAMES ARMSTRONG THEATER
10/03 CHICAGO, IL ARACDA THEATER
10/04 PHILADELPHIA, PA KESWICK THEATER
10/07 BARCELONA, SPAIN RAZZMATAZZ 2
10/08 MILAN, ITALY MILAN LIVE CLUB
10/09 TILBURG, NETHERLANDS 013
10/11 FRANKFURT, GERMANY BATSCHKAPP
10/12 PRATTELN, SWITZERLAND Z7
10/13 LONDON, UK ISLINGTON ASSEMBLY HALL
10/14 PARIS, FRANCE ALHAMBRA
Special Guests for the US shows will be BEND SINISTER
Special Guests for Europe/UK will be JOHN WESLEY
7/28/14 10:50PM
Preorder
Trailer:
Second Nature, the sophomore statement from Flying Colors is released via Mascot Label Group / Music Theories Recordings on September 29, 2014 in Europe and September 30, 2014 in the rest of the world.
Sporting stunning artwork from the legendary designer Hugh Syme (Rush, Iron Maiden, Dream Theater) and bookended by two tracks of truly epic stature – Open Up Your Eyes and the multiple-part Cosmic Symphony – the album is every bit as breathtaking as the debut.
Second Nature will be released on CD and 2LP (180 gram vinyl). The vinyl has a downloadcard, good for one MP3 download of the album.
Both the CD and 2LP can be ordered with a specially designed t-shirt that's only available from MLG Merch.
As always we will include a free poster with each order.
But wait, that's not all! Each pre-order will include a free bonus DVD with behind the scenes footage, interviews and more, and we will send you MP3s of 2 bonus songs that are not available on the album**.
**The bonus tracks are being prepared by the band. As soon as we receive them, we will send everybody who pre-ordered the album a link to get these bonus MP3s.
Tracklisting:
1. Open Up Your Eyes
2. Mask Machine
3. Bombs Away
4. The Fury Of My Love
5. A Place In Your World
6. Lost Without You
7. One Lost Forever
8. Peaceful Harbor
9. Cosmic Symphony
I. Still Life Of The World
II. Searching For The Air
III. Pound For Pound
Please note that this is a pre-order item. If you order this item together with an item that is already available, we will hold your order and ship all items around September 22. We recommend that you place a separate order if you wish to receive the released items sooner.
7/26/14 11:56AM
There is no PRESS RELEASE that I can find at the moment, but the linked website with this information is there, so I'm going with it.
Below is information already published on this Finnish? website/webstore showing the title, artwork, release date (September 26th, 2014) and track list for the sophomore LP from the prog rock "super group" of a sort featuring Mike Portnoy, Neal Morse, Steve Morse, Casey McPherson and Dave LaRue, whose Self Titled debut LP made somewhat of a big splash in 2012, at least among progressive rock fans.
Personally? I thought I was going to fall head over heals for that record back in 2012, and while I did enjoy it for the most part, I kind of enjoyed it enough, but also remained curious where this group could go in the future.
I love progressive rock when combined with well produced pop music, and I actually grew to like Casey McPherson as a singer in Alpha Rev after hearing this.
But the jury is out a bit with this band, I think they have the potential to make some amazing songs, so I certainly hold optimism for this. But do I expect this to fight for my favorite record this year? given their debut LP didn't really, I would be pleasantly surprised if it did. But, then again, those are the kind of surprises and albums I often appreciate even more with time (and even their older work after that experience).
One note: the title being "Second Nature" the Rush song comes to mind of course, but also the name of the band that would become Transatlantic, except would have featured Jim Matheos on guitar instead of Roine Stolt, back in 1999/2000. Matheos it turned out wanted-to but was too busy with Fates Warning (I recall reading many years ago) to be able to work on the music for that band/album so had to depart the project (and replaced by Stolt). And at least some of that experience found motivation for Jim to collaborate with Mike Portnoy again with OSI a few years later.
Finnish Webstore Link
This is just a *ROUGH TRANSLATION FROM FINNISH TO ENGLISH*
Virtuoso prog / pop / rock band with (former) members of Deep Purple, Dream Theater, The Winery Dogs, Avenged Sevenfold, Dixie Dregs, Spock's Beard, Alpha Rev & the Trans-Atlantic
Release date: 09.26.2014. Product will be shipped the release date.
You can book with this product and pick it up from the nearest Record Shop X.. This is done by moving the product to shopping cart, and then checkout the order takeout trade.
tracks
1 Open Up Your Eyes
2 Mask Machine
3 Bombs Away
4 The Fury Of My Love
5 A Place In Your World
6 Lost Without You
7 One Lost Forever
8 Peaceful Harbor
9 Cosmic Symphony
I. Still Life Of The World
II. Searching For The Air
III. Pound For Pound
Link with Soundcloud Stream of album
I've checked it out once for the most part. It's not bad, but I'd be lying if I said I was blown away by it. Needs more time I suppose. The Transatlantic comparison is still there, naturally with Neal Morse especially, it often sounds like a lot of his music.
8/20/14 6:15AM
"Mask Machine" video. Not bad. Not as bad at least as some of the comments on some of the forums have given it. Does it sound like Muse? in spots, but so did parts of their debut album. Is it too long? not really just from hearing it initially.
also I never got around to sharing this.The 3 shows in the US Bend Sinister is the support act. I'd love to go, but the Chicago show for example, falls on Yom Kippur anyway. O well, I do hope naturally a lot of new people catch on to Bend Sinister from the exposure as it is cool Flying Colors (Portnoy) is having them share the bill on those 3 dates in the US at least.
OCTOBER 2014 TOUR
10/02 LOS ANGELES, CA JAMES ARMSTRONG THEATER
10/03 CHICAGO, IL ARACDA THEATER
10/04 PHILADELPHIA, PA KESWICK THEATER
10/07 BARCELONA, SPAIN RAZZMATAZZ 2
10/08 MILAN, ITALY MILAN LIVE CLUB
10/09 TILBURG, NETHERLANDS 013
10/11 FRANKFURT, GERMANY BATSCHKAPP
10/12 PRATTELN, SWITZERLAND Z7
10/13 LONDON, UK ISLINGTON ASSEMBLY HALL
10/14 PARIS, FRANCE ALHAMBRA
Special Guests for the US shows will be BEND SINISTER
Special Guests for Europe/UK will be JOHN WESLEY
7/28/14 10:50PM
Preorder
Trailer:
Second Nature, the sophomore statement from Flying Colors is released via Mascot Label Group / Music Theories Recordings on September 29, 2014 in Europe and September 30, 2014 in the rest of the world.
Sporting stunning artwork from the legendary designer Hugh Syme (Rush, Iron Maiden, Dream Theater) and bookended by two tracks of truly epic stature – Open Up Your Eyes and the multiple-part Cosmic Symphony – the album is every bit as breathtaking as the debut.
Second Nature will be released on CD and 2LP (180 gram vinyl). The vinyl has a downloadcard, good for one MP3 download of the album.
Both the CD and 2LP can be ordered with a specially designed t-shirt that's only available from MLG Merch.
As always we will include a free poster with each order.
But wait, that's not all! Each pre-order will include a free bonus DVD with behind the scenes footage, interviews and more, and we will send you MP3s of 2 bonus songs that are not available on the album**.
**The bonus tracks are being prepared by the band. As soon as we receive them, we will send everybody who pre-ordered the album a link to get these bonus MP3s.
Tracklisting:
1. Open Up Your Eyes
2. Mask Machine
3. Bombs Away
4. The Fury Of My Love
5. A Place In Your World
6. Lost Without You
7. One Lost Forever
8. Peaceful Harbor
9. Cosmic Symphony
I. Still Life Of The World
II. Searching For The Air
III. Pound For Pound
Please note that this is a pre-order item. If you order this item together with an item that is already available, we will hold your order and ship all items around September 22. We recommend that you place a separate order if you wish to receive the released items sooner.
7/26/14 11:56AM
There is no PRESS RELEASE that I can find at the moment, but the linked website with this information is there, so I'm going with it.
Below is information already published on this Finnish? website/webstore showing the title, artwork, release date (September 26th, 2014) and track list for the sophomore LP from the prog rock "super group" of a sort featuring Mike Portnoy, Neal Morse, Steve Morse, Casey McPherson and Dave LaRue, whose Self Titled debut LP made somewhat of a big splash in 2012, at least among progressive rock fans.
Personally? I thought I was going to fall head over heals for that record back in 2012, and while I did enjoy it for the most part, I kind of enjoyed it enough, but also remained curious where this group could go in the future.
I love progressive rock when combined with well produced pop music, and I actually grew to like Casey McPherson as a singer in Alpha Rev after hearing this.
But the jury is out a bit with this band, I think they have the potential to make some amazing songs, so I certainly hold optimism for this. But do I expect this to fight for my favorite record this year? given their debut LP didn't really, I would be pleasantly surprised if it did. But, then again, those are the kind of surprises and albums I often appreciate even more with time (and even their older work after that experience).
One note: the title being "Second Nature" the Rush song comes to mind of course, but also the name of the band that would become Transatlantic, except would have featured Jim Matheos on guitar instead of Roine Stolt, back in 1999/2000. Matheos it turned out wanted-to but was too busy with Fates Warning (I recall reading many years ago) to be able to work on the music for that band/album so had to depart the project (and replaced by Stolt). And at least some of that experience found motivation for Jim to collaborate with Mike Portnoy again with OSI a few years later.
Finnish Webstore Link
This is just a *ROUGH TRANSLATION FROM FINNISH TO ENGLISH*
Virtuoso prog / pop / rock band with (former) members of Deep Purple, Dream Theater, The Winery Dogs, Avenged Sevenfold, Dixie Dregs, Spock's Beard, Alpha Rev & the Trans-Atlantic
Release date: 09.26.2014. Product will be shipped the release date.
You can book with this product and pick it up from the nearest Record Shop X.. This is done by moving the product to shopping cart, and then checkout the order takeout trade.
tracks
1 Open Up Your Eyes
2 Mask Machine
3 Bombs Away
4 The Fury Of My Love
5 A Place In Your World
6 Lost Without You
7 One Lost Forever
8 Peaceful Harbor
9 Cosmic Symphony
I. Still Life Of The World
II. Searching For The Air
III. Pound For Pound
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Fire Garden - Sound of Majestic Colors (2014)
http://firegardenmusic.com/
https://www.facebook.com/firegardenmusic
http://firegardenmusic.bandcamp.com/
Fire Garden is a progressive metal band from Chicago, whose debut album "Sound of Majestic Colors" was released just a few weeks ago on June 10th.
"The Joker" is a pretty sweet opening track. With dynamic, haunting textures and moods. I particularly like the sad, slow section that comes about 5 minutes-in.
"Get ready to play my game. I leave you all in tears. It'll never be the same, because I'll make you go insane"
The chorus and vibe of it does represent a bit of what "The Joker" from the Batman Universe may represent. At least I suppose I get that image in my head of The Joker character. I would guess the band was thinking about that at least in some part when they wrote and named that track what they did.
edit: I never got around to finishing this as I posted this a few weeks ago as a DRAFT. But I can say, this record, while overall has some of the traditional prog/prog metal. The melodies do stay with you, and there does not seem to include that much of the extensive filler I notice in a lot of the so-called traditional prog metal. I think they focus as much (if not more) on atmosphere as they do on chops.
Vocally Kevin sounds at times like Neal Morse or even Nick D'Virgilio, but not *exactly* like either. I suppose that is one reason why i am not as bothered by the vocals compared to some of the again, so-called trad. prog metal.
Is this an album I am addicted to? I can't say exactly. But I still like a lot of it. "Time Machine" "Far From Grace" "The Last Step" come to mind among the others besides the opening track.
Is it a short record? no, of course just look at the track lengths. But I suppose it doesn't seem as long as it may (or other prog albums of similar 1 hour+ lengths).
I will try and digest it more if/when time allows by the end of the season (Halloween) when that comes up. But for now, as far as "prog" records for 2014, this is one of the better ones, and namely given it's from a new band
1. The Joker 8:39
2. Alone 5:32
3. Time Machine 6:33
4. Endless Memories
5. Redemption 4:18
6. Behind the Face 8:09
7. Forsaken 6:00
8. Echoes in Silence 8:23
9. Far From Grace 6:26
10. The Last Step 8:42
https://www.facebook.com/firegardenmusic
http://firegardenmusic.bandcamp.com/
Fire Garden is a progressive metal band from Chicago, whose debut album "Sound of Majestic Colors" was released just a few weeks ago on June 10th.
"The Joker" is a pretty sweet opening track. With dynamic, haunting textures and moods. I particularly like the sad, slow section that comes about 5 minutes-in.
"Get ready to play my game. I leave you all in tears. It'll never be the same, because I'll make you go insane"
The chorus and vibe of it does represent a bit of what "The Joker" from the Batman Universe may represent. At least I suppose I get that image in my head of The Joker character. I would guess the band was thinking about that at least in some part when they wrote and named that track what they did.
edit: I never got around to finishing this as I posted this a few weeks ago as a DRAFT. But I can say, this record, while overall has some of the traditional prog/prog metal. The melodies do stay with you, and there does not seem to include that much of the extensive filler I notice in a lot of the so-called traditional prog metal. I think they focus as much (if not more) on atmosphere as they do on chops.
Vocally Kevin sounds at times like Neal Morse or even Nick D'Virgilio, but not *exactly* like either. I suppose that is one reason why i am not as bothered by the vocals compared to some of the again, so-called trad. prog metal.
Is this an album I am addicted to? I can't say exactly. But I still like a lot of it. "Time Machine" "Far From Grace" "The Last Step" come to mind among the others besides the opening track.
Is it a short record? no, of course just look at the track lengths. But I suppose it doesn't seem as long as it may (or other prog albums of similar 1 hour+ lengths).
I will try and digest it more if/when time allows by the end of the season (Halloween) when that comes up. But for now, as far as "prog" records for 2014, this is one of the better ones, and namely given it's from a new band
1. The Joker 8:39
2. Alone 5:32
3. Time Machine 6:33
4. Endless Memories
5. Redemption 4:18
6. Behind the Face 8:09
7. Forsaken 6:00
8. Echoes in Silence 8:23
9. Far From Grace 6:26
10. The Last Step 8:42
Monday, December 2, 2013
Transatlantic - Kaleidoscope (2014)
12/2/13 9:04PM
New song and video for "Shine." Just looking at many of the comments, I don't agree with the majority of them. This song isn't bad, it's just a ballad. Amazing? no, but for what it is, even at 7 and a half minutes, it's actually decent enough. Nice guitar solo namely from Roine.
10/23/13 2:36PM
Okay, another update nearly 1-week late. Life happens, what can I say?
I am looking forward to this album coming out on January 27th. Kaleidoscope? if I recall, there was at least 1 somewhat accomplished cult psych band from the 70's with that name. Inspiration? doubtful, but it came to mind in thinking about the title.
Structurally, this album reminds me of SMPT:e for what that may be worth. My guess is, a few epics, and 1 or 2 shorter pieces.
Whether it's close to as good as either the debut album or Bridge Across Forever, I'm kind of at a wait and see since The Whirlwind ended up being a large bloated mess, with not too many memorable moments/sections that those 1st 2 LPs had that I totally loved about this band, and how they always stood out from more or less all of the "retro" sounding prog rock groups. Or even, more than both The Flower Kings and Spock's Beard were in some ways.
I have always felt, TA is like taking the best elements of Spocks and TFK's making them better.
I also have often wondered what this project could have been like with Jim Matheos and with the name "Second Nature"..and even how/what it may have been like with Kevin Gilbert involved. But, all "what ifs" of course.
Also the tour includes Daniel Gildenlow again (but not the album? I would love to see him get involved, but I guess that'll never happen. But even just ANY ORIGINAL MUSIC project with Mike Portnoy would be welcome to see happen at some point, OSI? lol).
The tour itself is coming to the States, but Chicago of course is the only date relatively close. Obscure Prog Rock and doing full-scale US tours affordably, just never has and probably never will happen like it did in the 70's.
Transatlantic reveal new studio album ‘Kaleidoscope’ and 2014 World Tour!
Progressive-rock super-group Transatlantic, featuring Mike Portnoy, Neal Morse, Roine Stolt and Pete Trewavas will release their brand new fourth studio album ‘Kaleidoscope’ on the 27th January 2014. The track-listing for the forthcoming record is as follows and the beautiful artwork for the release can be seen below:
1. Into the Blue
2. Shine
3. Black as the Sky
4. Beyond the Sun
5. Kaleidoscope
The band will also embark on a 6-week World Tour that will see them joined once again by Pain of Salvation’s Daniel Gildenlöw as a 5th touring member. As part of the extensive tour, the band will also headline the Progressive Nation At Sea 2014 Cruise from the 18th till the 22nd February alongside 22 other leading Prog acts including Adrian Belew Power Trio, Devin Townsend Project, King's X, Anathema, Spock’s Beard and many more. This unique performance will see the band performing a very special encore of classic Yes material with the legendary Jon Anderson on vocals. You can find more details on PN14 here: http://www.progressivenationatsea.com/
An Evening With Transatlantic 2014 World Tour:
Jan 31st - Los Angeles, CA - El Segundo Performing Arts Center
Feb 1st - San Francisco, CA
Feb 2nd - Everett, WA - Everett Music Hall
Feb 4th - Chicago, IL - The Arcada Theater
Feb 5th - Quebec City, Canada - Theatre Du Capitole
Feb 6th - Montreal, Canada - L'Olympia
Feb 8th - Philadelphia, PA - Keswick Theater
Feb 9th - New York City, NY - Highline Ballroom
Feb 11th - Mexico City, Mexico - Teatro Metropolitan
Feb 13th - São Paulo, Brazil - Carioca Club
Feb 14th - Buenos Aires, Argentina
Feb 15th - Santiago, Chile
Feb 18th to 22nd - Progressive Nation At Sea
Feb 27th - Madrid, Spain - La Rivera
Feb 28th - Barcelona, Spain - Razzmatazz 2
March 2nd - Milan, Italy - Alcatraz
March 3rd - Rome, Italy - Orion
March 5th - Pratteln, Switzerland - Z7
March 6th - Karlsruhe, Germany - Substage
March 7th - Munich, Germany - Muffathalle
March 8th - Berlin, Germany - Astra
March 9th - Cologne, Germany - E Werk
March 11th - Antwerp, Belgium - Trix
March 12th - London, England - The Forum
March 13th - Tilburg, Holland - 013
March 14th - Tilburg, Holland - 013
March 15th - Paris, France - Le Bataclan
June - Sweden Rock Festival
For more information visit:
www.facebook.com/transatlanticmusic
www.transatlanticweb.com
9/27/13 10:12PM
Coming in January?
https://twitter.com/MikePortnoy/statuses/383256179809742848
“@Vikernest777: @MikePortnoy Any info about the new Transatlantic album?” OUT IN JAN...TOUR IN FEB/MARCH...INFO SOON
5/30/13 5:47AM
Update from Portnoy:
https://www.facebook.com/TransatlanticMusic/posts/10151631858946293
From MP: The TA4 Sessions went splendidly fantastic! (I think I've been hanging around Pete too much these past weeks...haha!) I won't disclose any details, but I will say the album is about 75 mins long and has 5 songs (2 Epics & 3 "normal" length) and we also recorded 8 Covers for a Bonus Disc as well! Release is expected for the beginning of 2014...more info to come later in the year...
Doesn't mean much, as the last album had other "shorter songs" on the bonus disc if I recall. But on the surface, it sounds more like the 1st 2 records in terms of structure., But it's all about the quality of the music, regardless of length.
3/29/13 9:38AM
http://www.progrockmag.com/news/transatlantic-plan-4th-album/
Neal Morse has confirmed that prog supergroup Transatlantic will start work on their fourth album in May.
It follows a recent European tour featuring the Neal Morse Band and The Flower Kings, which brought together prime movers Morse, Roine Stolt and Mike Portnoy – leading to fan speculation that a studio project might be in the works with bassist Pete Trewavas.
According to DPRP, Morse says: “We have set dates in May; and, my friends, it is actually happening! Before I left for the tour, and even just a few days ago, I have a lot of really strong prog music ideas that I’m really excited about presenting to the guys.
“But, of course, everything has to be kind of secret until we actually do it – so I can’t say or tell much more. We’re all really excited about it.”
He believes the follow-up to 2009′s The Whirlwind could appear early next year although he adds: “Who knows? I’m just glad we’re doing it!”
The Neal Morse Band and The Flower Kings have announced a US appearance at La Mirada Auditorium, Los Angeles, on May 7. “Mike recently became available in May,” says Morse, “and I knew TFK were in the States for RoSfest; so I sent a few emails, and here we are. We had such a great time in Europe and we want to share it with our friends in the States. I just wish we could do more.”
This isn't the biggest news, of news, as Portnoy has especially been asked about the next TA for a few years now, and he has said it likely would happen, just a matter of when.
But the plan now is to write and likely record it in May.
I'm looking forward to it, although my feeling about TA and The Whirlwind sadly isn't all that favorable. Mainly since I adore both SMPTe and especially Bridge Across Forever so much.
In other words, I am hoping this new album will have the magic of those early 2000's lps, and NOT the bloated nature of The Whirlwind from 2009. I'm a bit skeptical it will though just given the recent music Neal Morse has written. But I'd love to be surprised.
I wouldn't expect it to come out until 2014 though.
New song and video for "Shine." Just looking at many of the comments, I don't agree with the majority of them. This song isn't bad, it's just a ballad. Amazing? no, but for what it is, even at 7 and a half minutes, it's actually decent enough. Nice guitar solo namely from Roine.
10/23/13 2:36PM
Okay, another update nearly 1-week late. Life happens, what can I say?
I am looking forward to this album coming out on January 27th. Kaleidoscope? if I recall, there was at least 1 somewhat accomplished cult psych band from the 70's with that name. Inspiration? doubtful, but it came to mind in thinking about the title.
Structurally, this album reminds me of SMPT:e for what that may be worth. My guess is, a few epics, and 1 or 2 shorter pieces.
Whether it's close to as good as either the debut album or Bridge Across Forever, I'm kind of at a wait and see since The Whirlwind ended up being a large bloated mess, with not too many memorable moments/sections that those 1st 2 LPs had that I totally loved about this band, and how they always stood out from more or less all of the "retro" sounding prog rock groups. Or even, more than both The Flower Kings and Spock's Beard were in some ways.
I have always felt, TA is like taking the best elements of Spocks and TFK's making them better.
I also have often wondered what this project could have been like with Jim Matheos and with the name "Second Nature"..and even how/what it may have been like with Kevin Gilbert involved. But, all "what ifs" of course.
Also the tour includes Daniel Gildenlow again (but not the album? I would love to see him get involved, but I guess that'll never happen. But even just ANY ORIGINAL MUSIC project with Mike Portnoy would be welcome to see happen at some point, OSI? lol).
The tour itself is coming to the States, but Chicago of course is the only date relatively close. Obscure Prog Rock and doing full-scale US tours affordably, just never has and probably never will happen like it did in the 70's.
Transatlantic reveal new studio album ‘Kaleidoscope’ and 2014 World Tour!
Progressive-rock super-group Transatlantic, featuring Mike Portnoy, Neal Morse, Roine Stolt and Pete Trewavas will release their brand new fourth studio album ‘Kaleidoscope’ on the 27th January 2014. The track-listing for the forthcoming record is as follows and the beautiful artwork for the release can be seen below:
1. Into the Blue
2. Shine
3. Black as the Sky
4. Beyond the Sun
5. Kaleidoscope
The band will also embark on a 6-week World Tour that will see them joined once again by Pain of Salvation’s Daniel Gildenlöw as a 5th touring member. As part of the extensive tour, the band will also headline the Progressive Nation At Sea 2014 Cruise from the 18th till the 22nd February alongside 22 other leading Prog acts including Adrian Belew Power Trio, Devin Townsend Project, King's X, Anathema, Spock’s Beard and many more. This unique performance will see the band performing a very special encore of classic Yes material with the legendary Jon Anderson on vocals. You can find more details on PN14 here: http://www.progressivenationatsea.com/
An Evening With Transatlantic 2014 World Tour:
Jan 31st - Los Angeles, CA - El Segundo Performing Arts Center
Feb 1st - San Francisco, CA
Feb 2nd - Everett, WA - Everett Music Hall
Feb 4th - Chicago, IL - The Arcada Theater
Feb 5th - Quebec City, Canada - Theatre Du Capitole
Feb 6th - Montreal, Canada - L'Olympia
Feb 8th - Philadelphia, PA - Keswick Theater
Feb 9th - New York City, NY - Highline Ballroom
Feb 11th - Mexico City, Mexico - Teatro Metropolitan
Feb 13th - São Paulo, Brazil - Carioca Club
Feb 14th - Buenos Aires, Argentina
Feb 15th - Santiago, Chile
Feb 18th to 22nd - Progressive Nation At Sea
Feb 27th - Madrid, Spain - La Rivera
Feb 28th - Barcelona, Spain - Razzmatazz 2
March 2nd - Milan, Italy - Alcatraz
March 3rd - Rome, Italy - Orion
March 5th - Pratteln, Switzerland - Z7
March 6th - Karlsruhe, Germany - Substage
March 7th - Munich, Germany - Muffathalle
March 8th - Berlin, Germany - Astra
March 9th - Cologne, Germany - E Werk
March 11th - Antwerp, Belgium - Trix
March 12th - London, England - The Forum
March 13th - Tilburg, Holland - 013
March 14th - Tilburg, Holland - 013
March 15th - Paris, France - Le Bataclan
June - Sweden Rock Festival
For more information visit:
www.facebook.com/transatlanticmusic
www.transatlanticweb.com
9/27/13 10:12PM
Coming in January?
https://twitter.com/MikePortnoy/statuses/383256179809742848
“@Vikernest777: @MikePortnoy Any info about the new Transatlantic album?” OUT IN JAN...TOUR IN FEB/MARCH...INFO SOON
5/30/13 5:47AM
Update from Portnoy:
https://www.facebook.com/TransatlanticMusic/posts/10151631858946293
From MP: The TA4 Sessions went splendidly fantastic! (I think I've been hanging around Pete too much these past weeks...haha!) I won't disclose any details, but I will say the album is about 75 mins long and has 5 songs (2 Epics & 3 "normal" length) and we also recorded 8 Covers for a Bonus Disc as well! Release is expected for the beginning of 2014...more info to come later in the year...
Doesn't mean much, as the last album had other "shorter songs" on the bonus disc if I recall. But on the surface, it sounds more like the 1st 2 records in terms of structure., But it's all about the quality of the music, regardless of length.
3/29/13 9:38AM
http://www.progrockmag.com/news/transatlantic-plan-4th-album/
Neal Morse has confirmed that prog supergroup Transatlantic will start work on their fourth album in May.
It follows a recent European tour featuring the Neal Morse Band and The Flower Kings, which brought together prime movers Morse, Roine Stolt and Mike Portnoy – leading to fan speculation that a studio project might be in the works with bassist Pete Trewavas.
According to DPRP, Morse says: “We have set dates in May; and, my friends, it is actually happening! Before I left for the tour, and even just a few days ago, I have a lot of really strong prog music ideas that I’m really excited about presenting to the guys.
“But, of course, everything has to be kind of secret until we actually do it – so I can’t say or tell much more. We’re all really excited about it.”
He believes the follow-up to 2009′s The Whirlwind could appear early next year although he adds: “Who knows? I’m just glad we’re doing it!”
The Neal Morse Band and The Flower Kings have announced a US appearance at La Mirada Auditorium, Los Angeles, on May 7. “Mike recently became available in May,” says Morse, “and I knew TFK were in the States for RoSfest; so I sent a few emails, and here we are. We had such a great time in Europe and we want to share it with our friends in the States. I just wish we could do more.”
This isn't the biggest news, of news, as Portnoy has especially been asked about the next TA for a few years now, and he has said it likely would happen, just a matter of when.
But the plan now is to write and likely record it in May.
I'm looking forward to it, although my feeling about TA and The Whirlwind sadly isn't all that favorable. Mainly since I adore both SMPTe and especially Bridge Across Forever so much.
In other words, I am hoping this new album will have the magic of those early 2000's lps, and NOT the bloated nature of The Whirlwind from 2009. I'm a bit skeptical it will though just given the recent music Neal Morse has written. But I'd love to be surprised.
I wouldn't expect it to come out until 2014 though.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Progressive Nation at Sea 2014 (includes The Dear Hunter)
7/30/13 4:30PM
so, The Dear Hunter came *on board* (no pun intended), lol. I was thinking if them and Bend Sinister were on this, at least they'd have 2 non-traditional prog bands. I suppose King's X and even Jolly are as well.
Progressive Nation at Sea begins at $700 per person plus taxes and fees.
But the key thing for this is the PRICE TAG.. So, you're looking at with Airfare/travel a MINIMUM
of $1200, lol. But I would guess before it's all said and done, it'll probably end up costing closer to $2000, lol.
However, even if I won the fucking Power Ball, I think there'd be a better chance my girlfriend would start playing guitar in a technical death metal band, than being okay with me going to this for 5 or 6 days, WITHOUT HER.
And even if I won the Powerball, the cost would not be the reason she wouldn't even think of going. Because
a) she can't stand more or less all these bands
b) she hardly would ever be able to find it enjoyable to be stuck on a boat with a bunch of white males who she likely would have next to nothing in common with other than a general interest/obsession for music
c) she'd never be able to convince her mother it would be a good idea
d) Maybe the MOST important, She would in-effect miss at least 1 of her Classes in Grad School
and even if she didn't go, she would see my going as selfish, which I suppose I can't argue with her, because I would easily find the interest to use even HALF OF THE COST to take 1 or 2 trips somewhere SHE and I would enjoy like San Francisco, Boston, or even like Hawaii or Europe. And from a more REALISTIC standpoint, I think it makes sense for me and her to stay with my elderly Grandma in AZ ON OUR OWN (for 20+ years, I've always been there with my folks, but then again, they usually have paid for my trip) in March for maybe 4 days, that could WORK AROUND HER SCHEDULE and be literally less than HALF of this FOR THE BOTH OF US.
That ALL being said, this comes across as a bunch of bands I have enjoyed historically all in 1 place. To have The Dear Hunter, Jon Anderson, Pain of Salvation, Transatlantic and King's X together is frankly ODD in a COOL WAY. However, I've seen ALL OF THEM, in some cases, MANY TIMES. But the point being, the idea of getting to see them in general isn't all that big of a deal. To see them TOGETHER and I'll be honest, within a group of prog nerds hanging for this long of period of time, would have its appeal.
But, $1500+ APPEAL??? eh, not really. If Fates or more so, JOHN ARCH were there along with The River Empires, Pepe Deluxe, The Reign of Kindo, Apes and Androids, Kiss Kiss and a whole slew of others who I've never seen but love dearly, than the $1500+ might seem more justifiable. But it sure as hell won't be happening, at least this year. But for others, I guess we'll see. I really do think Mike is a little bit over his head with thinking tons of people have that level of cash to shellout, especially with Cruise to the Edge as well, although I suppose some people might have gone to Cruise the Edge last year and see Jon Anderson on the bill and want to give this a try instead.
But the common Dream Theater/Transatlantic/Portnoy fan, just guessing, doesn't have quite as much disposable income from an AGE guestimation than say the avg Yes/Genesis?Renaissance fans who are looking towards Cruise to the Edge.
But then again, some of the costs of going to festivals like ProgPowerUSA and Nearfest isn't incredibly different give or take $300-$500, perhaps that demographic will try this.
But myself, I guess I'm curious how this goes and maybe wonder if there is any success, who might be brought on for a 2nd PN at Sea in 2015 or 2016.
I do find it interesting how close I was to predicting the lineup. PSMS, Riverside, Tony Harnell + Bumblefoot and Next to None were the only names I didn't bring up that are there (for now, more may get announced, although I still wonder if Steven Wilson was added, how much better this thing would sell, but the odds are probably low to none).
I do think The Dear Hunter may have agreed to do this partially from an offer they may have had for Progressive Nation 2009 that they turned down. I wonder if Casey felt like turning something like this down a 2nd time, he might regret. I suppose I should check TDH forum and see what people are saying. Maybe I'll get some reaction when I see and talk to them and hopefully Casey directly in September at The Varsity Theater. I actually would love to see a THE DEAR HUNTER-LED Festival where you'd have TDH and bands like The Reign of Kindo, The River Empires and Hotel of the Laughing Tree potentially. But unless I paid for the whole thing, I don't think it would ever happen. More likely Coheed would be able to put on something like that.
edit: Well my WORDING probably could have been better or more accurate, but in passing along this link on a few places including Twitter, Casey noticed and sent me a messages on twitter:
@AllMediaReviews if you'd like, you could just ask me why we're playing it.
@CaseyCrescenzo Sure thing. So, what is/are the reason(s) the band are playing at Progressive Nation at Sea?
1. I've always tried to expose the band to as many different demographics, and in as many settings as possible..
2. I was personally approached about the opportunity by Mike Portnoy, based on his appreciation of the band alone...
3. We get to be around some really amazing musicians and bands.
4. My band gets to take a cruise and play music in a month we are used to sitting at home in snow or rain.
All are totally valid points, that I suppose I could have asked him. But I often am too shy or feel it not the best thing to ask. Although Casey is probably 1 of the only people on twitter who actually would answer that sort of stuff, or any stuff. Because I have sent messages to other people like Kimbra and Mayer Hawthorne and never received a reply. Casey I suppose I don't consider the idea of just shooting him a message once in awhile. Maybe it's the fanboy/starstruck experience for me, or maybe it is like I said, something I just worry if I'd be bothering him. But then when I go off onto complete speculative ideas with really no factual information about, and then PASS THEM ALONG (not to forget just posting), I guess I'm vulnerable.
I was telling my gf, this kind of stuff probably would be better understood through in-person or at least a podcast or youtube video. Which is 1 reason I'm sort of thinking trying that, because I'll write a lot of things that sort of are in my head and just come out of me into here. And I often if not always want to have an opinion, usually a strong opinion, but I don't think of how some, namely the people/musicians who may see it may regard it. Not so much if something is good or bad, but if something is TRUE or FALSE.
I can see why someone might find concern enough to respond to that. I just need to think about that kind of thing before throwing out speculation, especially in HOW IT IS WORDED.
Then again, it hasn't helped my situation to be hampered by an inflamed/flare-up in my lower back since Saturday morning. It's not been fun, so getting stressed out about stuff + that + other stuff like work, isn't exactly helping my state of mind. But I'm trying to be optimistic regardless.
PROGRESSIVE NATION RETURNS IN 2014!!
"PROGRESSIVE NATION AT SEA 2014" MAKES ITS MAIDEN VOYAGE FEB 18TH THRU 22ND
FEATURING TRANSATLANTIC, PORTNOY SHEEHAN MACALPINE SHERINIAN, JON ANDERSON, KING'S X, SPOCK'S BEARD, THE FLOWER KINGS, PAIN OF SALVATION, RIVERSIDE, TONY HARNELL & BUMBLEFOOT, BIGELF, BEARDFISH, THE DEAR HUNTER, JOLLY AND NEXT TO NONE
Progressive Nation is hitting the high seas in 2014! Join us in this inaugural sailing from February 18th – 22nd 2014 on the luxurious Norwegian Pearl heading from Miami to Great Stirrup Cay and Freeport, Bahamas. This music festival at sea gives you an experience that a land festival just can’t match. In addition to 4 days in the beautiful Caribbean and all the amenities of a cruise ship; you will enjoy music from morning ‘til night with over 40 shows on multiple stages, along with activities, Q&A’s, panels and workshops from your favorite artists.
PROGRESSIVE NATION founder Mike Portnoy elaborates:
"In 2008 & 2009, I created a touring package called "Progressive Nation" and with Dream Theater headlining, we did three full tours (two in North America and one in Europe) that showcased a variety of bands that embraced the spirit and musicality of progressive music.
Well after a 5 year hiatus, I have decided to resurrect Progressive Nation and this time we are taking it to the seas!
But rather than a 4 band bill like previous Progressive Nation tours, we have expanded the bill to OVER A DOZEN of today's greatest progressive bands, musicians and artists! (and there may be one or two more still to be confirmed)
Myself and my former DT bandmate Derek Sherinian have teamed up with Sixthman (who have done incredibly successful cruises with Kid Rock, Lynyrd Skynyrd and the annual Kiss Cruise to name a few) as well as our friends at Inside Out Music and look forward to a very successful inaugural launch of PROGRESSIVE NATION AT SEA Feb 18th thru 22nd 2014
We are so excited to take part in this historic maiden voyage and look forward to sharing this one of a kind event with fans from all around the world!"
Visit www.progressivenationatsea.com to register for the pre-sale today!
This music festival at sea gives music fans an experience that a land festival just can’t match. In addition to 4 days in the beautiful Caribbean, guest will have the opportunity to see their favorite musical heroes perform numerous sets around the many stages set around Norwegian Pearl. And when guests are not attending a performance, a variety of activities hosted by the artists will fill the day.
Progressive Nation at Sea begins at $700 per person plus taxes and fees. Prices include entertainment, meals, and access to Norwegian Pearl’s outstanding amenities, including outdoor pool, hot tubs, rock climbing wall, and fitness center. Fans can read more and sign up for the Progressive Nation pre-sale at www.progressivenationatsea.com
With 15 decks of fun, Norwegian Pearl offers guests access to 13 bars and lounges, 19 dining experiences, one outdoor pool, four hot tubs, and spa treatments to help forget about the world left behind. Onboard concerts aren’t the only things that rock on Norwegian Pearl - passengers looking for more activities can visit the outdoor climbing wall, bowl a few frames at the onboard lanes, or tempt lady luck at The Pearl Club Casino. Progressive Nation cruisers will also have the opportunity to explore the sandy beaches of Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas, their very own private island getaway. A host of beachside activities and games, the gigantic “Hippo” water slide, and access to food and beverage service will make the stay on Great Stirrup Cay an unforgettable experience.
Forthcoming announcements are scheduled to follow detailing artist-hosted activities, theme night information, contest additions, and activities! For full details and to sign up for the pre-sale, fans should visit www.progressivenationatsea.com
http://www.progressivenationatsea.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/progressivenationatsea
twitter: http://twitter.com/prognationatsea
7/29/13 5:00PM
okay, it's tomorrow. Just for the sake-of my wishlist would probably be something like:
Prediction:
Transatlantic
Jolly
Flying Colors
Pain of Salvation (Daniel Gildenlow performing with TA as well)
then again, if it's a Cruise, it might include 8-10 bands like "Cruise to the Edge" so throw in:
The Flower Kings
Marillion
Big Elf
Spock's Beard
The Winery Dogs
Beardfish
Steven Wilson (still a longshot, but Mike did hang out with Steven recently and I can only imagine how helpful his name would draw people to this thing)
Fates Warning
Scale the Summit
A Longshot preference with bands Mike has mentioned liking:
Transatlantic (doing new stuff and mostly if not all music from the 1st 2 albums)
The Dear Hunter
Bend Sinister
Karnivool
Total fantasy (with still regards to being active bands)
Transatlantic (same as above, and also for the fact there has to be at least 1 Portnoy band on the bill)
Pepe Deluxe
Hotel of the Laughing Tree
The River Empires
5:49PM
edit: a lot of the speculation on the forums are saying, for affordability and maybe the wording "out of the WATER" is it'll be a CRUISE with Transatlantic and some others.
It probably makes sense, and thus if it is a Cruise, I won't even think about wanting to go, barring myself winning the Powerball.
7/26/13 12:00PM
https://twitter.com/MikePortnoy/status/360800143370502144
BIG NEWS coming next week...prepare to be blown out of the WATER!!#PN14 pic.twitter.com/iH55jBMpHx
At least 2 of these I am predicting will be on the bill:
Transatlantic
Flying Colors
Neal Morse
The Winery Dogs
I'll add in my wish list later, although it doesn't go so far anyway given a tour with this kind of roster, honestly, the odds are it won't come to MN and be like a 5-10 date tour. But next week I'm sure that will be revealed.
so, The Dear Hunter came *on board* (no pun intended), lol. I was thinking if them and Bend Sinister were on this, at least they'd have 2 non-traditional prog bands. I suppose King's X and even Jolly are as well.
Progressive Nation at Sea begins at $700 per person plus taxes and fees.
But the key thing for this is the PRICE TAG.. So, you're looking at with Airfare/travel a MINIMUM
of $1200, lol. But I would guess before it's all said and done, it'll probably end up costing closer to $2000, lol.
However, even if I won the fucking Power Ball, I think there'd be a better chance my girlfriend would start playing guitar in a technical death metal band, than being okay with me going to this for 5 or 6 days, WITHOUT HER.
And even if I won the Powerball, the cost would not be the reason she wouldn't even think of going. Because
a) she can't stand more or less all these bands
b) she hardly would ever be able to find it enjoyable to be stuck on a boat with a bunch of white males who she likely would have next to nothing in common with other than a general interest/obsession for music
c) she'd never be able to convince her mother it would be a good idea
d) Maybe the MOST important, She would in-effect miss at least 1 of her Classes in Grad School
and even if she didn't go, she would see my going as selfish, which I suppose I can't argue with her, because I would easily find the interest to use even HALF OF THE COST to take 1 or 2 trips somewhere SHE and I would enjoy like San Francisco, Boston, or even like Hawaii or Europe. And from a more REALISTIC standpoint, I think it makes sense for me and her to stay with my elderly Grandma in AZ ON OUR OWN (for 20+ years, I've always been there with my folks, but then again, they usually have paid for my trip) in March for maybe 4 days, that could WORK AROUND HER SCHEDULE and be literally less than HALF of this FOR THE BOTH OF US.
That ALL being said, this comes across as a bunch of bands I have enjoyed historically all in 1 place. To have The Dear Hunter, Jon Anderson, Pain of Salvation, Transatlantic and King's X together is frankly ODD in a COOL WAY. However, I've seen ALL OF THEM, in some cases, MANY TIMES. But the point being, the idea of getting to see them in general isn't all that big of a deal. To see them TOGETHER and I'll be honest, within a group of prog nerds hanging for this long of period of time, would have its appeal.
But, $1500+ APPEAL??? eh, not really. If Fates or more so, JOHN ARCH were there along with The River Empires, Pepe Deluxe, The Reign of Kindo, Apes and Androids, Kiss Kiss and a whole slew of others who I've never seen but love dearly, than the $1500+ might seem more justifiable. But it sure as hell won't be happening, at least this year. But for others, I guess we'll see. I really do think Mike is a little bit over his head with thinking tons of people have that level of cash to shellout, especially with Cruise to the Edge as well, although I suppose some people might have gone to Cruise the Edge last year and see Jon Anderson on the bill and want to give this a try instead.
But the common Dream Theater/Transatlantic/Portnoy fan, just guessing, doesn't have quite as much disposable income from an AGE guestimation than say the avg Yes/Genesis?Renaissance fans who are looking towards Cruise to the Edge.
But then again, some of the costs of going to festivals like ProgPowerUSA and Nearfest isn't incredibly different give or take $300-$500, perhaps that demographic will try this.
But myself, I guess I'm curious how this goes and maybe wonder if there is any success, who might be brought on for a 2nd PN at Sea in 2015 or 2016.
I do find it interesting how close I was to predicting the lineup. PSMS, Riverside, Tony Harnell + Bumblefoot and Next to None were the only names I didn't bring up that are there (for now, more may get announced, although I still wonder if Steven Wilson was added, how much better this thing would sell, but the odds are probably low to none).
I do think The Dear Hunter may have agreed to do this partially from an offer they may have had for Progressive Nation 2009 that they turned down. I wonder if Casey felt like turning something like this down a 2nd time, he might regret. I suppose I should check TDH forum and see what people are saying. Maybe I'll get some reaction when I see and talk to them and hopefully Casey directly in September at The Varsity Theater. I actually would love to see a THE DEAR HUNTER-LED Festival where you'd have TDH and bands like The Reign of Kindo, The River Empires and Hotel of the Laughing Tree potentially. But unless I paid for the whole thing, I don't think it would ever happen. More likely Coheed would be able to put on something like that.
edit: Well my WORDING probably could have been better or more accurate, but in passing along this link on a few places including Twitter, Casey noticed and sent me a messages on twitter:
1. I've always tried to expose the band to as many different demographics, and in as many settings as possible..
2. I was personally approached about the opportunity by Mike Portnoy, based on his appreciation of the band alone...
3. We get to be around some really amazing musicians and bands.
4. My band gets to take a cruise and play music in a month we are used to sitting at home in snow or rain.
All are totally valid points, that I suppose I could have asked him. But I often am too shy or feel it not the best thing to ask. Although Casey is probably 1 of the only people on twitter who actually would answer that sort of stuff, or any stuff. Because I have sent messages to other people like Kimbra and Mayer Hawthorne and never received a reply. Casey I suppose I don't consider the idea of just shooting him a message once in awhile. Maybe it's the fanboy/starstruck experience for me, or maybe it is like I said, something I just worry if I'd be bothering him. But then when I go off onto complete speculative ideas with really no factual information about, and then PASS THEM ALONG (not to forget just posting), I guess I'm vulnerable.
I was telling my gf, this kind of stuff probably would be better understood through in-person or at least a podcast or youtube video. Which is 1 reason I'm sort of thinking trying that, because I'll write a lot of things that sort of are in my head and just come out of me into here. And I often if not always want to have an opinion, usually a strong opinion, but I don't think of how some, namely the people/musicians who may see it may regard it. Not so much if something is good or bad, but if something is TRUE or FALSE.
I can see why someone might find concern enough to respond to that. I just need to think about that kind of thing before throwing out speculation, especially in HOW IT IS WORDED.
Then again, it hasn't helped my situation to be hampered by an inflamed/flare-up in my lower back since Saturday morning. It's not been fun, so getting stressed out about stuff + that + other stuff like work, isn't exactly helping my state of mind. But I'm trying to be optimistic regardless.
PROGRESSIVE NATION RETURNS IN 2014!!
"PROGRESSIVE NATION AT SEA 2014" MAKES ITS MAIDEN VOYAGE FEB 18TH THRU 22ND
FEATURING TRANSATLANTIC, PORTNOY SHEEHAN MACALPINE SHERINIAN, JON ANDERSON, KING'S X, SPOCK'S BEARD, THE FLOWER KINGS, PAIN OF SALVATION, RIVERSIDE, TONY HARNELL & BUMBLEFOOT, BIGELF, BEARDFISH, THE DEAR HUNTER, JOLLY AND NEXT TO NONE
Progressive Nation is hitting the high seas in 2014! Join us in this inaugural sailing from February 18th – 22nd 2014 on the luxurious Norwegian Pearl heading from Miami to Great Stirrup Cay and Freeport, Bahamas. This music festival at sea gives you an experience that a land festival just can’t match. In addition to 4 days in the beautiful Caribbean and all the amenities of a cruise ship; you will enjoy music from morning ‘til night with over 40 shows on multiple stages, along with activities, Q&A’s, panels and workshops from your favorite artists.
PROGRESSIVE NATION founder Mike Portnoy elaborates:
"In 2008 & 2009, I created a touring package called "Progressive Nation" and with Dream Theater headlining, we did three full tours (two in North America and one in Europe) that showcased a variety of bands that embraced the spirit and musicality of progressive music.
Well after a 5 year hiatus, I have decided to resurrect Progressive Nation and this time we are taking it to the seas!
But rather than a 4 band bill like previous Progressive Nation tours, we have expanded the bill to OVER A DOZEN of today's greatest progressive bands, musicians and artists! (and there may be one or two more still to be confirmed)
Myself and my former DT bandmate Derek Sherinian have teamed up with Sixthman (who have done incredibly successful cruises with Kid Rock, Lynyrd Skynyrd and the annual Kiss Cruise to name a few) as well as our friends at Inside Out Music and look forward to a very successful inaugural launch of PROGRESSIVE NATION AT SEA Feb 18th thru 22nd 2014
We are so excited to take part in this historic maiden voyage and look forward to sharing this one of a kind event with fans from all around the world!"
Visit www.progressivenationatsea.com to register for the pre-sale today!
This music festival at sea gives music fans an experience that a land festival just can’t match. In addition to 4 days in the beautiful Caribbean, guest will have the opportunity to see their favorite musical heroes perform numerous sets around the many stages set around Norwegian Pearl. And when guests are not attending a performance, a variety of activities hosted by the artists will fill the day.
Progressive Nation at Sea begins at $700 per person plus taxes and fees. Prices include entertainment, meals, and access to Norwegian Pearl’s outstanding amenities, including outdoor pool, hot tubs, rock climbing wall, and fitness center. Fans can read more and sign up for the Progressive Nation pre-sale at www.progressivenationatsea.com
With 15 decks of fun, Norwegian Pearl offers guests access to 13 bars and lounges, 19 dining experiences, one outdoor pool, four hot tubs, and spa treatments to help forget about the world left behind. Onboard concerts aren’t the only things that rock on Norwegian Pearl - passengers looking for more activities can visit the outdoor climbing wall, bowl a few frames at the onboard lanes, or tempt lady luck at The Pearl Club Casino. Progressive Nation cruisers will also have the opportunity to explore the sandy beaches of Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas, their very own private island getaway. A host of beachside activities and games, the gigantic “Hippo” water slide, and access to food and beverage service will make the stay on Great Stirrup Cay an unforgettable experience.
Forthcoming announcements are scheduled to follow detailing artist-hosted activities, theme night information, contest additions, and activities! For full details and to sign up for the pre-sale, fans should visit www.progressivenationatsea.com
http://www.progressivenationatsea.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/progressivenationatsea
twitter: http://twitter.com/prognationatsea
7/29/13 5:00PM
okay, it's tomorrow. Just for the sake-of my wishlist would probably be something like:
Prediction:
Transatlantic
Jolly
Flying Colors
Pain of Salvation (Daniel Gildenlow performing with TA as well)
then again, if it's a Cruise, it might include 8-10 bands like "Cruise to the Edge" so throw in:
The Flower Kings
Marillion
Big Elf
Spock's Beard
The Winery Dogs
Beardfish
Steven Wilson (still a longshot, but Mike did hang out with Steven recently and I can only imagine how helpful his name would draw people to this thing)
Fates Warning
Scale the Summit
A Longshot preference with bands Mike has mentioned liking:
Transatlantic (doing new stuff and mostly if not all music from the 1st 2 albums)
The Dear Hunter
Bend Sinister
Karnivool
Total fantasy (with still regards to being active bands)
Transatlantic (same as above, and also for the fact there has to be at least 1 Portnoy band on the bill)
Pepe Deluxe
Hotel of the Laughing Tree
The River Empires
5:49PM
edit: a lot of the speculation on the forums are saying, for affordability and maybe the wording "out of the WATER" is it'll be a CRUISE with Transatlantic and some others.
It probably makes sense, and thus if it is a Cruise, I won't even think about wanting to go, barring myself winning the Powerball.
7/26/13 12:00PM
https://twitter.com/MikePortnoy/status/360800143370502144
BIG NEWS coming next week...prepare to be blown out of the WATER!!
At least 2 of these I am predicting will be on the bill:
Transatlantic
Flying Colors
Neal Morse
The Winery Dogs
I'll add in my wish list later, although it doesn't go so far anyway given a tour with this kind of roster, honestly, the odds are it won't come to MN and be like a 5-10 date tour. But next week I'm sure that will be revealed.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Spock's Beard - Brief Nocturnes and Dreamless Sleep (2013)
Target Date for this album is March 1st for the Limited Edition. I'm curious about this as I have posted recently, with Enchant singer Ted Leonard coming on board. I haven't heard this sampler above yet. I guess the key could be the songwriting and how well his vocals fit Spock's. I haven't been all too into their work since Neal Morse left, but given I'm an Enchant fan, I'm a lot more curious about this album, more than any of their records in a long time.
http://www.facebook.com/spocksbeard/posts/387733371309051
PREORDER SPOCK’S BEARD’S 11TH STUDIO CD NOW!
The preorder for our next CD has finally begun!
We are now taking preorders for a Limited Edition of our 11th studio CD.
Target delivery date for the Limited Edition is March 01, 2013
Proceeds from this preorder are a necessary part of the funding required to put out a quality product, so your support is greatly appreciated!
The title of the CD is “Brief Nocturnes And Dreamless Sleep” and will be shipped as a main disc PLUS a bonus disc. This privately released Limited Edition will contain an additional bonus track and some extra booklet pages that will not be on the InsideOut release in April.
As a gesture of appreciation for your trust in Spock’s Beard, by purchasing this CD before it is even finished your preordered copies will be shipped a month before being released worldwide by InsideOut / Century Media.
You’ll notice that there are more preorder options this time, one of which is a digital download. There are also some more expensive packages offered that are quite unique and may be highly interesting to some of you.
Check it out! Preorder soon because it is a Limited Edition with only 5,000 units available. (The 5,000 total units available will be divided between digital downloads and physical CDs). Once they’re gone, they’re gone, never to be reissued.
Thank you for your interest and support!!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Flying Colors - Flying Colors (2012)
1/18/12 1:35AM
Track Times
1 Blue Ocean 7:05
2 Shoulda Coulda Woulda 4:32
3 Kayla 5:20
4 The Storm 4:53
5 Forever in a Daze 3:56
6 Love Is What I’m Waiting For 3:36
7 Everything Changes 6:55
8 Better Than Walking Away 4:57
9 All Falls Down 3:22
10 Fool in My Heart 3:48
11 Infinite Fire 12:02
1/11/12 11:42AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 11, 2012
MASCOT LABEL GROUP ANNOUNCES MARCH 27 RELEASE DATE
FOR DEBUT FROM FLYING COLORS
Quintet Features Mike Portnoy, Dave LaRue, Neal Morse, Casey McPherson and Steve Morse
New York --- Mascot Label Group has announced a March 27 release date for the debut from Flying Colors (available the day prior overseas) on their Music Theories Label. The formation of the ensemble began with a simple idea: virtuoso musicians and a pop singer joining together to make new-fashioned music the old fashioned way. Refreshing, classic, old and new, the recordings are saturated with the many styles, tones and hues of the players who in becoming a band have delivered a unique fusion of vintage craftsmanship and contemporary music. Flying Colors is Mike Portnoy (drums, vocals), Dave LaRue (bass), Neal Morse (keyboards, vocals), Casey McPherson (lead vocals), and Steve Morse (guitar). Portnoy shares, "This album has bits and pieces of what you'd expect from each of us. However, the sum of all its parts led to brand new, unchartered territory for all involved."
In 2008, executive producer Bill Evans brought the idea to the world renowned musicians and producer Peter Collins. Intrigued by the idea, and the prospect of working together, the four signed on to form a band and record a first album. Steve Morse and Dave LaRue have developed a magical music chemistry over the years, that began early in their careers as partners in Dixie Dregs. Morse subsequently became a member of Deep Purple in 1995, while LaRue’s ongoing musical adventures include Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, Jordan Rudess, Steve Vai, and the aforementioned Portnoy. Multi-instrumentalist, composer and singer Neal Morse is one of the leading figures in progressive rock, who's significant notoriety follows his co-founding of the seminal band, Spock’s Beard in 1995, recordings as a solo artist, and contributions to the super-group Transatlantic. Mike Portnoy is one of the most popular and respected drummers in both metal and rock, and an accomplished writer and producer. He is the recipient of numerous industry accolades, including 26 Modern Drummer awards, Revolver Magazine’s Golden God award for “Best Drummer" and Drum Magazine's "Drummer of the Year". He rose to prominence as the leader, drummer, producer, and co-writer for metal/prog juggernaut Dream Theater, before moving on in 2010. That same year, he worked on Avenged Sevenfold’s #1 album Nightmare and their subsequent tour. And, it was Portnoy who recommended Alpha Rev's emotive singer Casey McPherson as a contender to join Flying Colors.
McPherson, who's 2010 Hollywood/Disney album New Morning debuted in the Top-5 on two Billboard charts, enjoyed major success at radio with multiple hits. The track “New Morning” spent 17 weeks in the Top-10 on Triple A Radio, and enjoyed a run on Vh1’s Top-20 Countdown for months. Steve Morse offers, "Casey was a glorious find, because he could make anything sound fantastic, and is a multitalented like the others."
Flying Colors convened for just nine days in early 2011, and composed and recorded this album during a short and intense session. Dave LaRue recalls, "It was quite an experience - the band moved at a fast pace, ideas flying around the room at all times. Sections of tunes were arranged, then re-arranged, ideas were tried every which way until we made them work, or, in some cases, discarded them altogether. Just keeping track of everything was a challenge!" McPherson adds, "This record is filled with trial and triumph. Raw and delicate songs alike amidst the swirling and daring orchestration of Steve, Neal, Mike and Dave. It's been such an inspiring challenge melding folk, prog, pop, and metal all into one big recording."
Touring plans for Flying Colors will be announced in the coming months.
To screen the Flying Colors EPK, click here: http://www.flyingcolorsmusic.com/video
For more information contact:
Steve Karas
SKH Music
917-420-0728
skaras@skhmusic.com
Pre-Ordering Link
PRE-ORDER NOW AND RECEIVE A FREE POSTER.
Pre-Order will be a Limited Edition Digipack CD!! Product will be shipped before release, so should be with you around releasedate.
Available on Ltd Edition Digipack, Double Vinyl and regular CD
1. Blue Ocean
2. Shoulda Coulda Woulda
3. Love Is What I’m Waiting For
4. The Storm
5. Kayla
6. Forever In A Daze
7. Everything Changes
8. Better Than Walking
9. All Falls Down
10. Fool In My Heart
11. Infinite Fire
well there it is. The tour dates I'll have to keep an eye out for. I will definitely think about that Double Vinyl, although like any single or double Vinyl in this case, it seems pretty much higher than I feel is worth spending €25,00 (or $31.73) then add tax+ shipping, that's likely close to $40 for a band/album I've never heard.
Although I haven't seen that clip yet since I'm at work. But that dollar figure is why I may hold off a bit until hearing more.
Track Times
1 Blue Ocean 7:05
2 Shoulda Coulda Woulda 4:32
3 Kayla 5:20
4 The Storm 4:53
5 Forever in a Daze 3:56
6 Love Is What I’m Waiting For 3:36
7 Everything Changes 6:55
8 Better Than Walking Away 4:57
9 All Falls Down 3:22
10 Fool in My Heart 3:48
11 Infinite Fire 12:02
1/11/12 11:42AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 11, 2012
MASCOT LABEL GROUP ANNOUNCES MARCH 27 RELEASE DATE
FOR DEBUT FROM FLYING COLORS
Quintet Features Mike Portnoy, Dave LaRue, Neal Morse, Casey McPherson and Steve Morse
New York --- Mascot Label Group has announced a March 27 release date for the debut from Flying Colors (available the day prior overseas) on their Music Theories Label. The formation of the ensemble began with a simple idea: virtuoso musicians and a pop singer joining together to make new-fashioned music the old fashioned way. Refreshing, classic, old and new, the recordings are saturated with the many styles, tones and hues of the players who in becoming a band have delivered a unique fusion of vintage craftsmanship and contemporary music. Flying Colors is Mike Portnoy (drums, vocals), Dave LaRue (bass), Neal Morse (keyboards, vocals), Casey McPherson (lead vocals), and Steve Morse (guitar). Portnoy shares, "This album has bits and pieces of what you'd expect from each of us. However, the sum of all its parts led to brand new, unchartered territory for all involved."
In 2008, executive producer Bill Evans brought the idea to the world renowned musicians and producer Peter Collins. Intrigued by the idea, and the prospect of working together, the four signed on to form a band and record a first album. Steve Morse and Dave LaRue have developed a magical music chemistry over the years, that began early in their careers as partners in Dixie Dregs. Morse subsequently became a member of Deep Purple in 1995, while LaRue’s ongoing musical adventures include Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, Jordan Rudess, Steve Vai, and the aforementioned Portnoy. Multi-instrumentalist, composer and singer Neal Morse is one of the leading figures in progressive rock, who's significant notoriety follows his co-founding of the seminal band, Spock’s Beard in 1995, recordings as a solo artist, and contributions to the super-group Transatlantic. Mike Portnoy is one of the most popular and respected drummers in both metal and rock, and an accomplished writer and producer. He is the recipient of numerous industry accolades, including 26 Modern Drummer awards, Revolver Magazine’s Golden God award for “Best Drummer" and Drum Magazine's "Drummer of the Year". He rose to prominence as the leader, drummer, producer, and co-writer for metal/prog juggernaut Dream Theater, before moving on in 2010. That same year, he worked on Avenged Sevenfold’s #1 album Nightmare and their subsequent tour. And, it was Portnoy who recommended Alpha Rev's emotive singer Casey McPherson as a contender to join Flying Colors.
McPherson, who's 2010 Hollywood/Disney album New Morning debuted in the Top-5 on two Billboard charts, enjoyed major success at radio with multiple hits. The track “New Morning” spent 17 weeks in the Top-10 on Triple A Radio, and enjoyed a run on Vh1’s Top-20 Countdown for months. Steve Morse offers, "Casey was a glorious find, because he could make anything sound fantastic, and is a multitalented like the others."
Flying Colors convened for just nine days in early 2011, and composed and recorded this album during a short and intense session. Dave LaRue recalls, "It was quite an experience - the band moved at a fast pace, ideas flying around the room at all times. Sections of tunes were arranged, then re-arranged, ideas were tried every which way until we made them work, or, in some cases, discarded them altogether. Just keeping track of everything was a challenge!" McPherson adds, "This record is filled with trial and triumph. Raw and delicate songs alike amidst the swirling and daring orchestration of Steve, Neal, Mike and Dave. It's been such an inspiring challenge melding folk, prog, pop, and metal all into one big recording."
Touring plans for Flying Colors will be announced in the coming months.
To screen the Flying Colors EPK, click here: http://www.flyingcolorsmusic.com/video
For more information contact:
Steve Karas
SKH Music
917-420-0728
skaras@skhmusic.com
Pre-Ordering Link
PRE-ORDER NOW AND RECEIVE A FREE POSTER.
Pre-Order will be a Limited Edition Digipack CD!! Product will be shipped before release, so should be with you around releasedate.
Available on Ltd Edition Digipack, Double Vinyl and regular CD
1. Blue Ocean
2. Shoulda Coulda Woulda
3. Love Is What I’m Waiting For
4. The Storm
5. Kayla
6. Forever In A Daze
7. Everything Changes
8. Better Than Walking
9. All Falls Down
10. Fool In My Heart
11. Infinite Fire
well there it is. The tour dates I'll have to keep an eye out for. I will definitely think about that Double Vinyl, although like any single or double Vinyl in this case, it seems pretty much higher than I feel is worth spending €25,00 (or $31.73) then add tax+ shipping, that's likely close to $40 for a band/album I've never heard.
Although I haven't seen that clip yet since I'm at work. But that dollar figure is why I may hold off a bit until hearing more.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Flying Colors - TBA (The Storm?) (the Morse's, Portnoy)
1/10/12 8:49PM
Mike just posted this on twitter a bit ago
• For all those who have been asking: Flying Colors info is coming TOMORROW!! Stay tuned... #MPin2012
maybe a new song or some samples will be included in this announcement coming tomorrow. Either way, it'll be nice to finally get more details about it.
11/9/11 12:17AM
So I was quoted by Portnoy himself on his forum earlier
angra1
I wonder if naming the band Morse Code would be too easy/obvious?
We kicked that name around for a minute and Steve told us he tried to use that name years ago and couldn't because somebody already used or trademarked it...
I can confirm (as Brauer already spilled the beans) that the band name is indeed Flying Colors...
More info coming very soon!
MP
Flying Colors? weird, my cousin's violin/harpsichord/+other instruments baroque project has a similar name in "Flying Forms."
I guess I'll have to mention the similarity to him, even though he nor his wife have ever heard any music from Mike or anyone else involved with this project.
At any case, it's good to finally start to get more pieces to this puzzle after nearly a year.
This MMPLM aka Flying Colors project's 1st album is due in March from what Mike posted a few days ago. And just this evening he posted on twitter:
MP listening to the playback of The Storm by Portnoy, Morse, Morse, LaRue & MacPherson - Electric Ladyland Studios NYC.
So maybe a song is titled "The Storm" or the album is? one or the other (or both?)
I should add a lot more in this blog as the information continues. All I really need to know is a couple of comparisons (made by Portnoy mind you) this project received earlier this year were U2 and especially Jellyfish and Kevin Gilbert in style.
Nuff said for now.
Mike just posted this on twitter a bit ago
• For all those who have been asking: Flying Colors info is coming TOMORROW!! Stay tuned... #MPin2012
maybe a new song or some samples will be included in this announcement coming tomorrow. Either way, it'll be nice to finally get more details about it.
11/9/11 12:17AM
So I was quoted by Portnoy himself on his forum earlier
angra1
I wonder if naming the band Morse Code would be too easy/obvious?
We kicked that name around for a minute and Steve told us he tried to use that name years ago and couldn't because somebody already used or trademarked it...
I can confirm (as Brauer already spilled the beans) that the band name is indeed Flying Colors...
More info coming very soon!
MP
Flying Colors? weird, my cousin's violin/harpsichord/+other instruments baroque project has a similar name in "Flying Forms."
I guess I'll have to mention the similarity to him, even though he nor his wife have ever heard any music from Mike or anyone else involved with this project.
At any case, it's good to finally start to get more pieces to this puzzle after nearly a year.
This MMPLM aka Flying Colors project's 1st album is due in March from what Mike posted a few days ago. And just this evening he posted on twitter:
MP listening to the playback of The Storm by Portnoy, Morse, Morse, LaRue & MacPherson - Electric Ladyland Studios NYC.
So maybe a song is titled "The Storm" or the album is? one or the other (or both?)
I should add a lot more in this blog as the information continues. All I really need to know is a couple of comparisons (made by Portnoy mind you) this project received earlier this year were U2 and especially Jellyfish and Kevin Gilbert in style.
Nuff said for now.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Nick D'Virgilio leaves Spock's Beard
http://www.ndvmusic.com/november-18-2011
The time has come.
It is very hard for me to write this, but as all good things come to an end at sometime or another, unfortunately I have to tell you all that my time with Spock’s Beard has come to a close.
As you may or may not know, for almost 2 years now I have been working for Cirque Du Soleil on the touring show TOTEM. Traveling a bit of the globe with my family on an adventure that has been great, but also very tough. Great because I am finally able to fully support my family with this very unstable life I chose as a musician, but also very tough because this job has made it hard to do other things and the main thing is Spock’s Beard.
For the first time in 20 years I had to miss shows when the band played a few festivals this past summer. Needless to say it was very, very strange not being there. I have been trying to land a permanent resident show for next year which would leave me a little more time to tour with SB but that has not happened yet and I don’t know when exactly that will happen. I recently signed for another year with Cirque because I cannot just get up and quit until something else can takes its place. I am sure you all understand that I have to take care of my main responsibility and that is my family. Spock’s Beard has never been the main money maker for me, or any of the other guys in the band. We have always had to do other things to supplement our incomes and for me now the other thing just happens to be Cirque.
The Spock’s guys want to keep moving forward and it is just Murphy’s Law for SB that everyone else is totally available to tour at the moment and I am not. For many years, I was available for anything but we couldn’t tour as much as we wanted because of other schedules. Now with my job it doesn’t look like I am going to be available anytime soon. I totally understand where the guys are coming from, wanting to tour and make new albums and I have too much respect for them and SB to say that they cannot keep going without me. The guys are eager to keep the ball rolling, and as hard as that is to imagine without me I give them my blessing fully and wish them nothing but the best in whatever they do.
I have had the best time and have made some of the best music of my career with Dave, Al, Ryo, and Neal and will take those memories with me for the rest of my life.
This is not to say that I will never play with the guys again. If all of the stars align in future and I can do something I surely will but for now the guys will be going on without me and I humbly ask all of you SB fans that have been nothing short of amazing, to keep the flame burning for them.
SO for my future, even with the crazy schedule of my Cirque job I have still been able to release a new solo EP “PIECES” recently and even did some solo shows. Those things are easier for me to do because I can do those within the areas that I am living at the time and I am planning on many more solo gigs in the future so keep an eye and ear out for those announcements. I will be going back to London at the beginning of 2012 with Cirque and during that time I will be able to get back down to Rob Aubrey’s studio to do some more sessions with the great BIG BIG TRAIN and even try and finish a project that got started a number of years ago now called “PULSE” with Mike Holmes of IQ fame. I am also writing a lot for more solo music of my own.
Thank you to my family. Your support has been my rock for many years now, I know that will always be there and I am so thankful for that.
Thank you to all of the great guys who have crewed for SB over the years and have gone way beyond the call of duty to get us on and off stage. Especially Rob, Olly, and Tommy. I will for sure miss touring with you guys.
Thank you to the promoters and venues that have opened up their stages to us.
Thank you Jimmy Keegan for holding down the fort while I was up front and kickin ass for SB over the years.
Thank you to all of my amazing endorsement companies.
In closing, THANK YOU to all of the Spock’s Beard fans out there who have given us so much amazing and heart felt support over the years. We could not have done it without you all. It has been an amazing journey for me and I will never ever forget the great times we have shared together.
It’s time for a change…
Nick
well, I have a few thoughts about this.
a) Nick of course I see maybe 1st and foremost, with his connection to Kevin Gilbert, as a significant personality within the Kevin Gilbert story, history, etc.
b) Spock's Beard since Neal Morse left really hasn't even been close to the same band. My intention in that feeling is not meaning to knock Nick, but I just know my taste, and there has always been a different, special element missing since Neal left. I just don't find Nick
1) Truly working as a frontman
2) Having the lead voice to really work well as a frontman and lead singer. He's always struck me for having a voice that's suited well for harmonies and backup vocals, not leads
3) Having the songwriting chops. As sad and ironic as it seems, given his relationship and exposure to Kevin Gilbert among others (the Genesis guys?), he just has never made anything that got my attention like those who he spent so much time working with. Although to be fair, I've never heard his NDV solo record Karma which I've always wanted to.
That all being said, I do feel for the Spock's Beard fans, although at the same time, it does raise the possibility I may be more interested in their music again. Ted Leonard of Enchant filled-in on vocals over the Summer at some festivals in Europe (at least 1 is on Youtube in fact), and by some chance he would join them, I immediately will be a lot more curious about their next album.
Also this may open the door for Neal Morse to re-join the band, even just for a 1-off record or something.
With those possibilities or others, I think the thing for me comes down to the songwriting. Spock's Beard, especially since Neal left, has come to sound a lot like many of the generic, plastic-y sounding (keyboard-laden) retro-progressive rock bands. They got away with some of it with Neal, because within that recipe of homage to the bands from the 70's, they came up with a lot of memorable melodies and fun sections that didn't seem to be too cheesy, for all that long (if at all).
Since Neal left, they have done similar things, but without those memorable elements that really stand out. They're almost like IQ, in that they do sound like another recipe-prog band. They're still a little better than the dozens of others who seem to mostly sound the same, but regardless, overall that almost soul-less sound I hear still exists.
If the Beard can bring in someone whose highly notice-able, that has a voice that grabs you, their chances of returning to greatness could happen. Ted Leonard, Neal, or someone else? I'm curious now who it may be.
Monday, November 7, 2011
11/7/11 Micro-Blog:
-House of Fools upcoming 2nd LP Versus the Beast is finally mixed and mastered. How it's released, and of course WHEN still remains to be announced. If I had to guess, they'll Self-release it, and it'll come out no later than March, but possibly as early as January.
-The Steve Morse/Neal Morse/Mike Portnoy/Dave LaRue/Casey McPherson collaboration album is being mixed in NYC right now by Michael Brauer and as Portnoy announced, is expected to be released in March. The title of the album or even the band's name is still un-announced. Morse Code?
-I dug White Denim on Saturday, so much so I bought their new album on Vinyl rather blindly.
-Along with them, and The Dear Hunter's performance, I think if I can find the time today or this week, I'll try and write some things I got to chat with people there, including members of The Dear Hunter. Rob Parr specifically.
-1 note I can add right now about that is I did get to ask Casey Crescenzo about what he knows of The River Empires and their 2nd album. And what he said kinda stuck in my head and while I wasn't totally surprised, still disappointed. Pretty much involving TRE's questionable future. Jessy I guess is not as focused on recording music for it right now, and possibly other things like actual cinema soundtrack work, etc. But I am taking this with a grain of salt, given Casey is not the #1 source behind the band. At the same time having been through this with other bands so often, I am trying to accept their may never be another The River Empires album, or it could be a long time for now. But until Jessy announces something more official, that's just speculation.
-The Neverending White Lights album that is released tomorrow, November 8th, is going to run $10.19 just in shipping costs from Canada, lol. I'm scratching my head about that a bit, especially for a compact disc. If it was Vinyl, I'd totally understand. But I may hold on my hard-copy purchase for a little bit for that reason.
The albums of the year crunch time is now happening. I probably will post a few reports as I am able to make progress with it.
hopefully more to come soon.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Steve Morse + Neal Morse + Mike Portnoy + Dave LaRue - TBA (2011) (1.0)
Steve Morse is interviewed and talks about it at 7:16 into this video.
just saw this and another interview that mentions it. Not a bad alternative for Mike. As long as it's not Christian, I'm pretty intrigued. Also a good change for Steve Morse since Deep Purple has been more or less a cash-call for him for how long?
just saw this and another interview that mentions it. Not a bad alternative for Mike. As long as it's not Christian, I'm pretty intrigued. Also a good change for Steve Morse since Deep Purple has been more or less a cash-call for him for how long?
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